NĀ MAMO O MŪ'OLEA

Network Alaka'i Member since 2013

We are a group of family and neighbors in east Maui actively working to mālama (care for) our place and perpetuate our Hawaiian cultural values and practices so the ‘ohana of Mū‘olea can continue to rely on these lands and waters for our traditional subsistence lifestyle. Mū'olea on Maui's rugged Hāna coast, once the summer residence of King David Kalākaua, is steeped in cultural heritage and tradition. Careful tending of its shoreline and reefs has ensured sustainable food supplies for generations of Hawaiians. But in recent decades, the traditional systems and practices that helped maintain abundance have started to erode.

We aim to boost community engagement in the management activities of our place. One way we practice traditional ahupua'a (ridge-to-reef) management is by resting an area from the harvest of 'opihi, a highly-prized endemic limpet that is part of the traditional Hawaiian diet. We have established a 75 meter voluntary 'opihi rest area along our coast, giving the 'opihi time to make more 'opihi and providing resources for the future. We also provide scholarships for youth and host an annual Hāna Limu Festival. Please visit our website for more information.

IN THE NEWS

Learn more about our work to bring their community together to care for Mū'olea: